Entity Use and Trademarking

[Jeff Prather]

I'd like to begin using a business name on business cards, website, mailers ect. The primary goal is to enhance my professional image for marketing purposes. The primary goal is not necessarily for risk mitigation which I know is why a lot of people will recommend an LLC. I'm intending to use insurance (homeowners, landlord, umbrella) as my risk mitigation for the time being so, while I know there are a lot out there who are going to recommend an LLC for legal protections (and I will hear them out), I'm mostly interested in what will be the best way to begin marketing under a business name.

Can it be as simple as just beginning to use a business name in your marketing without formally filing it with any governing body? or do you have to make it official via a partnership or joint venture? Pro's and cons of those entities? Tax implications? 

Part two - what is the communities advice about creating a business name? trademarking a business name?